As the summer temps continue to rise, the pool becomes a hot spot for many children. But the drowning last week of a 3-year-old boy serves as a solemn reminder of how dangerous pools can be for kids.

Now, the Save Kids Coalition has created a new program called Water Watchers to make sure accidents around the pool are limited.

Kids love the pool and parents love to make sure they're safe. The Cooper YMCA will be the first to teach parents, daycare providers and the general public about how to watch out for dangerous situations around the pool.

“Every swimming pool is different and has a set of dangers or potential harmful situations. What Water Watchers will work on is helping people identify what the things we really need to look out for when they are at this pool and how can we make sure to keep kids out of that situation or deal with when it does come up,” said JP Lauterbach, YMCA.

The summer of 2008 has seen two near drowning and one fatal incident in Lincoln. Parents like Amy Janvrin say teaching safety is a start in reversing this trend.

"You just really want to keep your kids safe in the pool. I advise swimming lessons here at the YMCA. Make sure you are with your kids. Teach them about safety in the water always," said Amy Janvrin, parent.

The most important thing participants will learn in the program is how things can go wrong fast.

“We want kids to know how to swim well, and we want parents and care providers to know what to look for so situations can be avoided, but it really can happen in a drop of a hat. It takes seconds for someone to get into trouble," Lauterbach said.

And sometimes, motherly instinct is the best defense.

“Don't let your kid out of your sight when you bring them to the pool. Don't let them out of your sight,” Janvrin said.

The Cooper YMCA will hold its first class Aug. 4.